Are you looking for the ULTIMATE Universal Orlando Packing list guide for your upcoming trip?
Well, look no further!
I know what it’s like preparing for a theme park vacation and not knowing where to start.
Many theme park travelers (like yourself) want to know what to pack for Universal Studios and what to wear to Universal.
That’s why I’m here to help you!
This will not be your typical packing list article that you see online. I will go into great details when it comes to preparing for Universal Orlando.
Today I will go over the following:
- Why Your Universal Orlando Packing List is Important
- What to Pack for Universal Orlando
- Tips for Packing for Your Universal Trip
- What to Know Before You Go to Universal
I will also breakdown your packing list by categories such as what to pack for a week at Universal versus a day at Universal.
So, let’s get started!
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The Importance of Planning Your Universal Orlando Packing List
I know you’ve probably had times where you’ve realized that an item you intended to bring was left on the kitchen counter?
Maybe a portable charger or some wet wipes that didn’t quite make its way into your backpack or suitcase.
It can be very frustrating having to resort to plan B because you forgot some important things for your day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.
Sometimes these items are things you can’t pack for days as they’re still in use until you are ready to start your solo vacation.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
Packing for a trip to Universal Orlando is not always an easy task.
Whether you intend to be at Universal for a few days, you should be prepared not only for moody teenagers, but the Florida weather.
In order for you to do this, you need to step up your packing game.
A lot of people find it difficult to prepare adequately for such trips, but with this ultimate Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios packing checklist and tips, you’ll be ready to start your EPIC adventure in no time!
The Ultimate Universal Orlando Packing List for Your Vacation
Now that we know how to pack for our week-long Universal Orlando vacation, let’s look at what to pack.
Below are a few items to help you prepare your own packing checklist.
What should I pack for a week at Universal Orlando?
Let’s start with the obvious, clothes. You’ll need more than that to create the best Universal Orlando packing list!
1. Clothing for Universal
You always want to pack comfortable items such as shirts, shorts, sneakers, swimwear, pajamas and underwear.
Pay special attention to the type of undergarments that you bring since you’ll want something that’s extremely comfortable and something that can withstand the heat of Florida.
Remember, you’ll be doing A LOT of walking so you want to always think of ways to prevent any injuries such as blisters, muscle soreness, and foot pain on your Universal Orlando Resort vacation.
Recommended: Ultimate Florida Packing List: What to Pack for Your EPIC Trip!
2. Toiletry Basics
As a traveler, this list can be endless since you’ll want to make sure you have all your basics covered.
Some of the things to think of are:
- Deodorants
- Floss
- Hand Wash
- Lip Balm
- Lotion
- Make-Up
- Nail Polish
- Perfume
- Q-Tips
- Sanitizer
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Shower Gel
- Sunscreen
- Tampons or Sanitary Towels
- A Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Wet Wipes
If you’re staying in a luxury Orlando vacation home, then you may end up doing your laundry. So, you should include some laundry soap and bags on your checklist.
You can always check with your resort to see if the offer free laundry detergent.
3. Important Paperwork
A lot of times it is easy to forget your passport, photo I.D., boarding pass or your hotel confirmation number.
This is why packing important paperwork early should always be a high priority to you.
Other necessary documents for Your Universal Orlando Trip include:
- Car Rental Information
- Debit/Credit Cards
- Your Universal Orlando Itinerary
- Insurance Coverage
- Hotel Information
- Ticket Confirmation
- Restaurant Reservation Confirmations
I do understand that we are in the digital age, so all these can be saved on your phone.
Plus, I am old school so I like to have my physical copy just in case I can’t access any of the documents from my phone.
Learn From My Lesson…
Believe it or not, this happened to me on my recent trip to Universal Studios Hollywood.
I had a VIP Tour Experience reserved for Universal Studios Hollywood but my email confirmation would NOT show up in my phone.
To say I was panicking is an understatement!
I shouldn’t have depended on my phone like that because I knew better.
Thankfully, I had my laptop with me and I was able to find that email and forward it to a much more dependable email account that would actually store the email properly in my phone.
Disaster avoided!
4. Prescription Meds
Now the Pharmacist side of me has to come out.
When taking any trip, whether a business trip or a relaxing vacation, it’s important to make sure you have all your refills lined up and completed.
You’ll also want to have any special instructions on you at all times that way if there’s an emergency someone will be able to help you.
I recommend having the essential over-the-counter meds (OTC) on you for one of those “just-in-case” scenarios.
OTC’s Such As:
- Pain or Fever Meds- Acetaminophen (Also known as Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Also known as Motrin)
- Anti-Histamines – Loratadine (Also known as Claritin) or Diphenhydramine (Also known as Benadryl)
- Med to Help Diarrhea – Loperamide (Also known as Imodium)
- Anti-Nausea/Motion Sickness Med – Meclizine (Also known as Dramamine)
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What to Pack for a Day at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure?
Now that you know what to place in your suitcase for Universal, let’s go through the essentials needed for a day at the park.
Best Things to Add to Your Universal Studios Packing List
1. Small Bag
You will want a ThemeParkHipster approved bag that can carry all of your Universal Orlando packing essentials that’s also not too big.
The free lockers at Universal can be on the smaller size so you’ll want a bag that fit inside of them easily.
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
2. Stylish, but Comfortable Clothing
When you’re going to a theme park for the day, one of the first things you think about is what you’re going to wear!
One of my top tips for you is to wear the most comfortable clothing because Florida is hot most of the time.
AND if you’re coming in the summer, then you’ll have to deal the monstrous afternoon rainstorms that may leave you soaked.
Although you will want to be comfortable, you’ll also want to be stylish so check out a few of my theme park outfit ideas for you here!
Get the official ThemeParkHipster t-shirt and rock out on your solo Universal Studios trip!
3. Comfortable Shoes
I absolutely must have a pair of Under Armour shoes or the Adidas on my feet below for any theme park trip!
I have found them to be the most comfortable sneakers that are long-lasting for those intense theme park trips.
This shoe is breathable and lightweight with a spacer mesh upper and stitched leather overlays for support & stability. Making it the perfect theme park shoe.
It also has a urethane welding and webbed lacing to lock down the ball of the foot. Making it one of the best things to pack for Universal Studios.
4. Small Snacks
Bringing small snacks to Universal Orlando is a must!
Having your favorite snack available will help you keep your Universal Orlando budget low.
Below is the Cookies Chips & Candies Snacks Variety Pack Bulk Sampler Assortment (Care Package 50 Count) on Amazon that will give you multiple snack options for your trip.
This food care package is put together by the Variety Fun company and is one of the best things to add to your Universal Studios packing list.
Recommended: Where to Stay in Orlando: Top 10 Hotels and Resorts for ALL Budgets
5. Have Universal Orlando App Downloaded
With the official Universal Orlando Resort™ App (free download), you can purchase and redeem select theme park tickets, see the latest wait times for rides and attractions, order phone from your phone and so more!
Be sure to download the Universal Orlando app BEFORE your trip so that you can get familiar with it. This will help decrease the level of stress on the day you’re at the park.
It’s also where you can map out your day before your trip, making it the ultimate must-have to make your trip even more epic.
6. Autograph Book and Pen
You MUST have an autograph book on hand for all of the amazing characters you will meet at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure!
This famous autograph book is always a theme park must have for fans of various fandoms.
The inside pages contain 110 blank sheets of high quality white paper suitable for writing in pen or pencil.
Just remember that you don’t have to get the standard autograph book. You can purchase a notebook of your favorite Universal Orlando character or franchise and have lots of them sign it for you.
Travel journals are also a great alternative for this too!
7. Universal Photo Spot Checklist
You must have a list of some the most Instagram-worthy photo spots for your trip to both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure!
Hipster Power Tip: Always pack a small umbrella to not only cover you during the rain, but to beat the Florida sun. You can find a UV Umbrella here!
8. Waterproof Phone Case/Pouch
Since most of us keep our entire life on our phones, it’s super important that we protect them.
Not only will you need protection from the splashes of your favorite Universal water rides, you’ll also need protection from the Florida rain.
So make sure you add the waterproof phone case to your Universal Orlando packing list.
9. The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guidebook
Have you ever wanted to go to Universal alone?
Don’t be scared! You can actually do this 🙂
My book, The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide, will show you how to courageously go to Universal Orlando Resort solo and how to save time and money while planning for your trip.
The easy-to-read guidebook will also dispel the myths of going to theme parks alone and will inspire you to create your own solo theme park memories.
10. Universal Orlando Resort Guidebook
The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando is written by a former Universal Orlando employee, Seth Kubersky.
He gives very detailed information on every Universal Orlando Resort ride, show, and restaurant in the resort, including insider details on Harry Potter’s Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
11. Theme Park Tickets
Don’t forget to purchase your park tickets from a reputable source prior to your visit.
The tickets can be printed out or stored in your mobile device for easy access once at the park gates.
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12. Universal Orlando Resort Parks Maps
Be sure to download the park maps prior to your visit. It will give you an ideal game plan before you step foot into the Universal Orlando gates.
You can find all of the latest Universal Orlando park map information here.
13. Interactive Wand
If you’re an over planner, then you can’t come to Universal without your wand in hand.
You’ll be able to cast magical spells inside the Wizarding World with a full size recreation of the famous wands from the film series!
However, if you want to live out your Harry Potter fantasy, then you’ll want to wait on purchasing your wand in advance so you can hopefully be chosen for one that’s special to you in Ollivander’s shop!
14. Wizard Robe
You can’t forget this because no Wizarding World of Harry Potter trip is complete without the perfect Hogwarts robe!
Plus, you’ll want it for all of those EPIC Harry Potter inspired photos that you’ll be taking.
Just be careful with the Florida heat and do your best to stay cool while you have the robe with you.
Thinking about have a Walt Disney World vacation, don’t forget to save and print your own Ultimate Disney packing list here!
15. Hand Sanitizer
This theme park must-have is essential when wanting to prevent any unnecessary germs.
And if you ever sit back and watch what people do with their hands before they touch a doorknob or ride handlebar, then you’ll understand why you cannot forget this item.
The PURELL Winter Season scents includes 4 winter inspired scents with JELLY WRAP carriers.
Plus, the convenient 1-ounce flip top cap bottle attaches to purses, backpacks, key chains, diaper bags or gym bags.
With everything that has happened, you don’t want to leave this item off of your Universal Orlando packing list.
Don’t forget to bring water wipes to help keep your hands clean.
16. An Appetite for Butterbeer
As you make your way around the Universal Orlando Resort, no trip would be complete without trying the staple drink, Butterbeer.
You can have it many ways: frozen, warm, and served as ice-cream.
In case you’re a Muggle, Butterbeer is a drink mentioned several times in the Harry Potter books. It is the drink of choice for many of the adolescents through out the famous Wizarding story.
It’s a staple drink and a must have beverage whenever you visit Universal Studios.
How is Butterbeer served?
- Cold Butterbeer
- Frozen Butterbeer
- Hot Butterbeer (seasonal)
- Butterbeer Potted Cream
- Fudge Butterbeer
- Butterbeer Soft Serve Ice-Cream
- Vegan Butterbeer
Sooooo many options to chose from!!!
Read Next: Day Trips from Orlando: 34 Incredible Places to Visit Less than 3 Hours Away!
Where to find Butterbeer in Universal Studios Orlando?
You can find a Butterbeer offering of some sort inside the Diagon Alley section of Universal Studios at:
- The Leaky Cauldron
- The Hopping Pot
- Sugarplum’s Sweetshop
- Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour
Where to find Butterbeer in Islands of Adventure?
You can find a Butterbeer offering of some sort inside the Hogsmeade section of Islands of Adventure at:
- Three Broomsticks
- Hog’s Head pub
- Honeydukes
- The Butterbeer street carts
17. Reusable Charger
Because you’ll be using the Universal Orlando App a lot and you’ll be taking a lot of photos and video, you must bring a portable charger (that’s also fully charged).
It’s one of the best things to add to your Universal Orlando packing list.
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
18. Cooling Towel
I want to thank the inventor of this AMAZING tool!
A cooling towel is simple to use and will help cool you off quickly during the summer months at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
All you have to do is wet the towel with cold water then place it around your neck for instant relief!
19. Handheld Electric Fan
Portable fans a great thing to have to help you circulate some cool air your way. I always keep one with me during the summer months at Universal.
You can also take it up a notch and get a water mist fan. It’s absolutely incredible especially if you can fill it with ice water!
20. Water
Because you will be in the Florida sun all day, you must bring water with you in order to prevent any heat related issues.
21. Ziploc Bags
Small sandwich bags are great for holding items in your bag that you don’t want to get wet.
I always have one to carry my cards like my I.D., my debit cards and my Universal Orlando Annual Passholder card.
Recommended: 5 Best Carry-on Quart Size Bags Perfect for Travel (Full Guide)
22. Hat
When thinking of what to pack for Universal Studios don’t forget to think about protecting your face and hair.
Hats aren’t only practical but can be stylish too. Plus, they’re easy to fold and are lightweight so you can place them in your bag with no problem
Hipster Power Tip: I know I’ve mentioned this earlier but please don’t forget your sunscreen!
23. Sunglasses
Because Florida is known as the Sunshine State, sunglasses are an ultimate must on your Universal Studios packing list.
Be sure to get one that has great UV ray protection.
Check out some of the best backpacks for Universal Orlando here!
5 Beginner Tips for Your Universal Orlando Packing List
Now that you know what to pack for Universal Studios, let’s go over a few tips to help you get started.
1. As Much as Possible, Try Not to Over Pack…but I get it if you do!
First of all, if you have a Universal Orlando packing checklist, try not to outdo that list.
You should always bring spare clothing, especially t-shirts if you do not intend to do laundry while on your Orlando vacation.
2. Prepare for the Heat, Humidity, and Rain
Florida weather is more humid than most people think. So, it may be a bit too much for just a regular t-shirt.
This is why you’d need to possibly pack multiple lightweight shirts to defeat the heat and humidity.
Plus, you will most likely need to change your shirt because of the extreme heat if you plan on visiting Universal Orlando anytime between June and late September.
Hipster Power Tip: Always pack a small umbrella to not only cover you during the rain, but to beat the Florida sun. You can find a UV Umbrella here!
3. Start Packing Early
When planning a trip to Orlando, it’s vital that you start packing early.
The perfect hack is to put your suitcase in the center of your bedroom and gradually put the things on your Universal packing list inside of it.
Packing this way makes it so much easier and less stressful as your departure day approaches.
4. Eliminate Those Awkward Situations
When prepping for your trip, you’ll want to get an additional carry-on bag ready to keep your essentials that are needed for your travel day.
If you’re like me, then you know that your carry-on is so vital just in case a not so magical moment happens like the loss of your luggage.
Carry-on Items Such As:
- An extra outfit or t-shirt
- Deodorant
- Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Chargers
- Underwear
- A TSA approved snack
- Makeup (lip gloss, mascara, eye-liner)
Don’t Forget to Get an E.T. Adventure Forest Smelling Candle
Watch the Full Universal Orlando Packing List Video here on YouTube!
5. Have Snacks Available
Universal Orlando Resort has some pretty good theme park food options available, but it can hurt your travel budget.
So, in order to keep your food budget under control, you should consider packing some snacks that can help hold you over in between your main Universal meals.
Saving money on Universal food will allow you to enjoy other things like special events or the incredible Universal Studios merchandise.
What to Know Before You Go to Universal Orlando Resort
Now that you’re ready to pack the best items for Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, let’s go over a few things to remember for your trip.
What’s the best itinerary for Universal Studios Orlando?
You’ll want to save time on your Universal Orlando trip, so you must have a game-plan to save time and see the most popular attractions.
You can grab your FREE Universal Orlando Resort Planner here!
More questions you may have are:
What time does Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure open?
Universal Studios Florida is open 365 days a year from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. in the regular season and from 9 a.m until 9 p.m. in the peak season.
Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.
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How much does it cost to go to Universal Studios in Florida or Islands of Adventure?
The cost of admission starts at $109, but I like discounts so I use Groupon and The Park Prodigy to find cheap Universal Studios tickets.
What should I do first at Universal Studios Orlando?
One of the best Universal Studios Orlando tips that I can give you is to start at Diagon Alley first.
This Harry Potter-inspired area will fill up quickly making the line for the two attractions (Escape from Gringotts and Ollivanders wand experience) extremely long.
Read Next: How to Find the BEST Vacation Home Rentals Near Disney World
Can I bring a backpack to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure?
You absolutely can bring a backpack as long as you do not pack any prohibited items.
To prevent any embarrassment at the security checkpoints, I’ve listed the items you are able to take with you inside of the Universal Orlando parks.
Please keep in mind that Universal is very strict on what it allows you to bring.
What are you ALLOWED to bring to Universal Studios?
- Bottled water
- Small snacks that do not require heating
- Any food required for medical purposes and medically indicated nutritional supplements
- Food required for special dietary needs
- Baby food/baby formula
- Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep
What are you NOT allowed to bring to Universal Studios?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Picnic lunches
- Food that requires heating or refrigeration
- Glass containers
- Hard-sided coolers
- Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep
- Suitcases and bags with wheels
- Folding chairs
- Clothing with offensive language or content
- Clothing that represents someone as emergency personnel
- Weapons of any kind
Join the Conversation on the Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Community on Facebook!
What should I wear to Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure?
Lightweight clothing such as shorts, leggings, comfy shoes, a t-shirt, a hat, and sunglasses are all perfect for your trip.
The key is to be comfortable, yet stylish!
What should I pack for Universal Orlando in summer?
If it’s in the summer, you want to prepare for the heat and humidity.
So the best items to bring to Universal Orlando in the summer are:
- Water
- Lightweight clothing
- Water Mist Fan
- Small umbrella (to block the sun and rain)
- Cooling Towel
- A Hat and sunglasses
- Travel size deodorant (a must have)
How should I pack if I’m going to Universal with children?
If you’re not traveling alone to Universal, then you’ll need to think about the needs of your child or kid that is with you.
You’ll want to have:
- A change of clothing
- Water
- Autograph book
- Cheaper souvenirs purchased before trip
- Snacks
- Hats
- Sunscreen
Can you bring bags on rides at Universal Orlando?
On most thrill rides at Universal you are not allowed to bring your bag or any loose articles.
There are lockers provided for free for you in front of the rides that require you to place your items inside of them.
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My Final Thoughts on Your Universal Orlando Packing List
Taking a vacation to Universal Orlando Resort can be fulfilling, so try not to stress too much if you feel like your packing list overwhelming.
Make the journey of packing for Universal an adventure and just enjoy the anticipation for a magical trip.
Did I miss an item? If so, let me know in the comments section below!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
If you enjoyed this Universal Studios Itinerary Guide, then you’ll love these:
- Islands of Adventure One-Day Itinerary
- Best Photo Spots at Islands of Adventure
- The Best Photo Spots at Universal Studios
- A Celebration of Harry Potter Tips and Tricks
- 7 Ways to Enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade
- What You Need to Pack for Universal Orlando
- Signs You’re Already Addicted to Diagon Alley
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original article date April 2018/Updated on July 11, 2023)
This is a great and helpful article! Thank you!
Hi Michelle!
I’m glad that I was able to help you. I hope your trip goes well at Universal and if you have any tips for what to pack, please let us know 🙂
Nikky
hi! thanks for the article. really helpful!
My pleasure!